-LRB- CNN -RRB- -- Fascinating , vibrant and multicultural .

Those are a just a few of the words Dubai 's visitors use to capture its essence . You can never prepare for how the ever-shifting landscape will seek to change something within you as well .

The larger-than-life grandeur of its towering city skyline , fleet of construction cranes signaling progress and crowded , fragrant souks -- or markets -- all combine to present the swirling scene of Dubai .

But in order to soak up Dubai 's eclectic diversity , you have to prepare for another truth : `` Dubai is worth a trip , but not all that glitters is gold , '' iReporter Holger Bauer said . Knowing how to navigate the city is key to making the most of your trip .

But do n't let a fear of the unknown keep you from setting off on a Dubai adventure .

`` It 's a crossroads of many cultures , '' iReporter Derek Matthew Koebbe said . `` They have a 30-year plan to become one of the largest economic and tourist regions in the world . I would love to travel there again to see this progression . ''

Dubai 's captivating mystique , beauty

City with a view

For first-timers or repeat visitors , taking in the breathtaking view of Dubai from the top of the world 's tallest building , the Burj Khalifa , is a must .

`` You can get a very good view and ` lay of the land ' by going up to the top floors of buildings , such as hotels or the Burj Khalifa , '' Anderson said . `` Going to the viewing deck of the Burj Khalifa in the evening is especially magical . You can view the nightlife below as well as the dancing fountains show , which is absolutely spectacular at night . ''

iReporter Sara Ruedy recommends taking the elevator ride up to the 160th floor for a 360-degree view of Dubai 's overall splendor . And while visiting the Burj Khalifa , located in the heart of downtown Dubai , do n't forget to explore the `` large variety of trendy restaurants , aesthetic pools and fountains , and upscale shopping , '' she said .

What to do , where to go

Dubai is full of activities that cater to any traveler 's whimsy . From the adventurous recreationalist to the avid shopper , this city is a treasure trove just waiting to be explored .

`` The malls are epicenters of activity and entertainment , from indoor ice skating and downhill skiing to aquariums , and of course , the high-end luxury shops , '' Anderson said .

Dubai is known for its array of fountains , so take the time to stop and enjoy the show . The Dubai Mall , the largest mall in the world , features a choreographed fountain show , according to Anderson .

`` One of the best ways to view the shows , which run regularly throughout the day , is to grab a seat for lunch or dinner at one of the restaurants in the mall with outside terrace seating . The food is delicious as well ! ''

Ruedy agrees with Anderson when it comes to the food at Dubai 's main mall .

`` I ate at a Lebanese restaurant named Karam Beirut within The Dubai Mall . The restaurant was unique in that large plates of every fresh vegetable you can think of were provided during the meal , creating a hearty and healthy eating experience . ''

Dubai , home of the extravagant , also has the world 's only 7-star hotel , the Burj Al Arab . But if you ca n't afford a stay in 7-star luxury , the city has other agreeable options .

`` I would recommend staying at any of the Jumeirah properties , as they are on the beach , '' Koebbe said . `` They have Burj Al Arab as well as the very affordable Madinat Jumeirah . The Madinat has a water park called Wadi Wadi that kids really enjoy ! The property also has a replica of a traditional souk with over 40 shops and restaurants . ''

If you have n't satisfied your shopping needs at the world 's largest mall , do n't forget to browse Dubai 's souks .

`` Another must see is the gold and spice souks near Dubai Creek , '' Koebbe said . `` Be ready to bargain because they raise the prices for any foreigners . ''

30 days , 30 kitchens : Making food in the UAE

How to explore

Before you begin , consider Dubai 's climate .

Koebbe captures it best : `` Think of Florida 's humidity combined with Arizona 's heat . Average summer temps are 100-plus with 80 % humidity . The best time to travel there is between November and March when the highs are in the 80s and the humidity is lower . ''

Once you get there , take a ride on the Dubai bus system for a fun way to sightsee .

Getting around the city for a dime each trip is easy on your wallet , and it helps you connect with the locals and tourists around you , Bauer said .

If you want to explore Dubai 's more natural offerings , get outside the city . The countryside and deserts are a nice balance for the towering skyline .

`` It 's wonderful to get into the countryside and see Al Ain or Abu Dhabi , not far away , '' iReporter Eric Kossoff said .

`` We took a half day tour with Arabian Adventures called ` The Sun Downer , ' '' Koebbe said . `` They pick you up a few hours before sunset from your hotel and take you into the Al Sahara Desert where you visit a traditional Bedouin camp . The camp provided everything from camel rides to hookahs and traditional foods along with belly dancers . ''

Take in the diversity

If you take one thing with you from your Dubai experience , let it be the culture . You wo n't find a replacement for it anywhere on Earth .

`` Dubai is such a beautiful and uniquely diverse destination , '' Koebbe said . `` Wandering through the souks , you hear people speaking in Arabic , British and American English , Hindi , Russian , French and even Chinese . The city has both an old and new feel all around it .

`` Wonderful smells of the spice souk are wafting around you mixing with the fragrances of some of the finest perfumes Europe has to offer . You 'll find older traditional souks on one corner , then on the next , the very American-like Mall of the Emirates with an indoor ski resort , Ski Dubai . I found the local people to be very warm and welcoming . ''

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A thriving downtown of towering buildings and crowded markets awaits travelers in Dubai

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Get a 360-degree view from atop the Burj Khalifa , the world 's tallest building

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From shopping to a sunset desert adventure , get the most out of your trip to Dubai